Suspended cop convicted of sexual offences begs for forgiveness before sentencing

A suspended police officer broke down in tears in the High Court in Suva today as he pleaded for forgiveness ahead of sentencing after being convicted of multiple sexual offences against his teenage niece.

Appearing before Justice Dane Tuiqereqere, the accused apologised to the court and asked for a second chance.

"I am asking for forgiveness and I am ready to go back and serve our nation," he said.

The High Court previously found him guilty of seven offences: four counts of sexual assault and three counts of rape. He was acquitted of one count of rape and one count of defilement.

The complainant, whose identity is protected by a court order, is the accused's niece.

The court found the offending took place between December 2019 and 2021, when the complainant was between 13 and 15 years old.

Justice Tuiqereqere found that the abuse began with repeated sexual assaults before escalating to rape. The offences occurred at several locations, including Kinoya in Tailevu and another village in Naitasiri.

Throughout the trial, the accused denied the allegations. However, the High Court found the complainant's evidence credible, consistent and reliable, and was satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the prosecution had proved the charges.

The matter has been adjourned to August 14 for sentencing.

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